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TOXINS: the GOOD, the BAD and the misunderstood

We’re exhorted to glug kale juice to flush them out of our system, or to knock back expensive supplements to counter their effects. They’re invoked as the cause of everything from obesity to cancer. Yet they’re referred to vaguely, like mysterious baddies lurking in our anatomical shadows. But what are toxins and how do they actually affect our health? Sue Quinn tells all

Scan the headlines and you’d be forgiven for thinking our bodies are awash in noxious soup. “How toxic is your food?” asked one recent headline above an article claiming that toxins cause weight gain and colds. Another article urged readers to “flush out toxins” by drinking eight glasses of water and two cups of green tea every day.

While it’s true that some substances in food can cause specific health problems, scientists believe the word ‘toxins’ is bandied about far too generally – and often incorrectly.

About Delicious Magazine

This month in delicious. we’re celebrating summer with £12,000+ prize giveaway, the ultimate kebabs, a brilliant Byron burger as well as a street party fit for a queen. Elsewhere Eric Lanlard serves up a new scone for Wimbledon, Sophie Michell shares healthy recipes, and Theo Randall gives a risotto masterclass. And don’t miss how to upgrade your cooking with fresh herbs. Plus there’s recipes to save time and money, 16 pages of stunning cake recipes and more.